Unai Emery reacts as Marcus Rashford matches 426-game Man Utd record for Aston Villa

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Marcus Rashford continued his season remontada for Aston Villa on Friday night at Villa Park.

Unai Emery’s side took on Cardiff City in the FA Cup fifth round, in which Aston Villa scored a comfortable 2-0 win over the Championship side.

The game saw Marcus Rashford continue to be a key figure for Villa – after a strong start to life in claret and blue.

Rashford has been impressing for Villa during his first few weeks away from Old Trafford on loan in Birmingham.

It has been exactly what United would have wanted from the loan, with the 27-year-old regaining confidence, happiness and by the looks of things an enjoyment for football.

Villa have protected Rashford from the media, telling reporters they wouldn’t take questions on him. Now, he’s had another impressive night.

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Marcus Rashford has dominant Friday night for Aston Villa

Villa’s push toward the FA Cup crown continued and it was Marco Asensio who was the star of the show for the Villians.

But while the Spaniard was the man of the match, Rashford was a close second with his performance from the left wing.

Rashford created the most chances during the game with six and also completed the most dribbles with three. This led to the Englishman getting yet another assist for Villa. This following Rashford’s two assists against Chelsea, the first time he managed this in over four years.

While having a great night creatively, Rashford struggled in front of goal, failing to score despite his 1.13 expected goals. Rashford missed two big chances in the game, which he will no doubt be kicking himself over.

Rashford’s six chances created has matched the record amount of chances in a game he created for United in 426 games – which was also six against Wigan last season in the FA Cup.

At a time when Ruben Amorim’s side is crying out for invention, Rashford will have him envious.

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Unai Emery likes what he is seeing from Marcus Rashford

Rashford has been impressive for Villa, there is no denying that.

Since his debut for Villa, Rashford has created more chances than any other Premier League player in all competitions, as Opta has revealed, with 13.

Rashford’s performances have been pleasing his manager Unai Emery, with the Spanish boss praising both Rashford and Asensio after the game for their form upon joining the club.

“Each one is playing in his position, trying to feel comfortable.

“We can say that Marco Asensio and Marcus Rashford are really adapting fantastic.

“And the players are understanding as well where are the spaces are to use them and trying to overcome the difficulties with the opponent they were facing us.

“Of course, I am very happy with how they played and how they are adapting to us.

“We will need them for the next matches and the challenges we have.”